When you need more space at home, the options can feel overwhelming.
Should you build an extension—or look upwards and convert your attic?
Both attic renovations and house extensions offer great ways to expand your living space. But they come with very different considerations in terms of cost, disruption, planning, and return on investment.
In this guide, we’ll compare attic conversions and house extensions side by side—helping you decide which option best suits your home, your lifestyle, and your goals.
The Basics: What Each Project Involves
Attic Renovation
An attic renovation transforms your existing roof space into a fully usable room, such as:
- Bedroom
- Home office
- Playroom
- Studio or hobby space
- Guest suite
Key point: You’re not increasing your home’s footprint—simply enhancing what’s already there.
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House Extension
A house extension involves physically expanding your home’s footprint, usually by building outwards at ground level or upwards with an additional storey.
Common extension types include:
- Rear kitchen/living extensions
- Side returns
- Multi-storey extensions with bedrooms above
Cost Comparison
Attic Renovation Costs
A typical attic conversion costs significantly less than a full house extension.
Why?
- No foundations required
- No major structural changes to the rest of the home
- Faster project timelines
- Fewer materials needed
Current Irish attic conversion costs typically range from €20,000 to €50,000, depending on size and complexity.
House Extension Costs
Building an extension can cost anywhere from €40,000 to €120,000+, depending on size, design, and ground conditions.
It also involves:
- Architectural and engineering fees
- Potential planning permission costs
- Landscaping and external works
Summary: If budget is a primary factor, an attic renovation delivers exceptional value per square metre added.
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Planning and Regulatory Considerations
Attic Renovation
- Many attic conversions fall under permitted development (no planning required), if structural changes are within certain limits.
- Some dormer additions may require planning permission—our team handles this for you.
- Building regulations (fire safety, insulation, structure) always apply—and we ensure full compliance.
House Extension
- Most house extensions require full planning permission, which adds time and uncertainty.
- Structural engineering assessments are essential.
- Party wall agreements may be required for terraced or semi-detached homes.
- Longer lead times before work begins.
Summary: If you want a faster, lower-hassle project—an attic renovation is the clear winner.
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Project Timeline and Disruption
Attic Renovation
- Typically completed in 4 to 6 weeks or less
- Work is largely contained within the attic space
- Minimal disruption to daily family life
- Access to lower floors remains open throughout
House Extension
- Typically takes 12–24 weeks, or longer for complex projects
- Major disruption to main living areas
- Garden or outdoor spaces affected during works
- Often involves temporary relocation of rooms
Summary: If minimising disruption matters—especially for families working from home or with small children—an attic conversion is far less intrusive.
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Value and Return on Investment
Attic Renovation
- Adds up to 20% to property value
- Creates highly desirable additional bedroom or living space
- Lower upfront cost = higher percentage return
- Enhances energy efficiency if insulation is upgraded
House Extension
- Adds significant value—but at a higher cost
- Excellent for creating open-plan living spaces
- More suitable for long-term, larger lifestyle changes (multi-generational living, significantly larger homes)
Summary: Both options offer excellent return on investment—but attic conversions provide faster, more cost-effective gains.
When to Choose an Attic Renovation
An attic conversion is ideal if you:
- Want to add a bedroom, home office, or flexible room
- Need more space but don’t want to lose garden area
- Have a suitable existing attic space
- Prefer a quicker project with minimal disruption
- Want to avoid full planning permission where possible
When to Choose a House Extension
A house extension may suit you better if you:
- Need large, open-plan ground-floor space (kitchen/living/dining)
- Plan to add multiple rooms across different storeys
- Have already maximised the potential of your attic space
- Want to future-proof the home for extensive family needs
Final Thoughts: Which Is Right for You?
Both attic renovations and house extensions offer fantastic ways to transform your home. The right choice depends on:
- Your space needs
- Your budget
- How much disruption you can tolerate
- The potential of your existing attic
- Your long-term lifestyle plans
At The Irish Attic Company, we’re passionate about helping homeowners unlock the value in their homes—often starting with the attic.
If you’d like expert advice on whether an attic renovation could meet your goals, we’re happy to provide:
- Free attic assessment and quote
- Honest advice about what’s possible
- Transparent pricing and timelines
- Guidance on planning requirements
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Ready to Explore Your Options?
If you’re considering ways to expand your living space, don’t overlook the potential above your head.
An attic conversion could be the ideal solution—bringing space, value, and joy to your home, without the complexity of a full extension.
Discover what’s possible within your home.
